Back-to-school costs are putting a huge financial strain on families

It feels like we're spending more money than ever on back-to-school essentials, from uniforms to stationery, and after-school activity fees.

We spend such a huge portion of the summer preparing for the back-to-school season, but often don't realise just how much we're spending.

And it's quite an astronomical figure.

In a recent survey from the Irish League of Credit Unions, it costs the average parent in Ireland €1,500 to send a child to school.

The survey also found that one in three parents will likely go into debt because of back-to-school costs.

35% of parents said their children will have to go without some items because they cannot afford them.

Primary school parents are spending around €1,450 per child, and secondary school parents are spending €1,560.

The mammoth expense is not only having an impact on parents' finances, but also on their mental wellbeing.

Commenting on the 2025 findings, David Malone, CEO of the Irish League of Credit Unions, said:

“This year’s back-to-school survey findings are reflective of the broader pressures being felt across society associated with the increasing cost of living.
 
“While the fact that 1 in 3 are taking on debt is significant, the research also shows that more and more households are sacrificing to pay for back-to-school, particularly when compared to recent years."

Malone confirmed 37% are sacrificing family holidays so they can afford school supplies.

Almost 1 in 5 (18%) sacrificed food compared to 13% in 2024.
 
There has also been a significant increase in families using savings, 42% in 2025, which is a 7% increase on 2024.

The number of parents taking out credit union loans (12%) has tripled from 4% in 2024.